Behavioral intervention services are all about taking control of the way we think and act. Under the California Self-Determination Program (SDP), adults with disabilities can use behavioral intervention to learn important skills and improve their quality of life. Let’s explore what behavioral intervention is, who can use it, and how it specifically helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).
What Does Behavioral Intervention Mean?
Behavioral intervention uses techniques and strategies to influence positive behavior changes. With applied behavior analysis (ABA) at its roots, this intervention aims to increase good behaviors while reducing harmful or disruptive ones.
Behavioral intervention plans (BIPs) are customized for each person to address their unique needs and challenges. These plans often include positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), which focus on promoting good behavior through reinforcement and support.
Behavioral Intervention for Disabilities
Behavioral intervention is incredibly helpful for people with disabilities because it can tackle a wide range of behavioral challenges and skill gaps.
For adults with developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, behavioral intervention can be a helpful tool. It can help individuals learn how to effectively communicate, identify triggers that lead to unwanted behaviors, and develop coping skills to navigate challenges.
For example, a person with autism might need help with social interactions and communication. They may find it hard to make eye contact, understand social cues, or start conversations. Behavioral intervention can help by teaching these skills step-by-step and practicing them in real-life situations.
Experts create behavioral intervention plans after conducting thorough assessments to ensure the recommended services are a perfect fit for an individual’s strengths and areas where they can improve. Through consistent and supportive interventions, individuals can reach meaningful goals.
Who Can Benefit From Behavioral Intervention Services?
Behavioral intervention is extremely helpful for people with disabilities who struggle with everyday activities or find it challenging to participate in community events.
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) has been shown to help adults with intellectual abilities. PBIS focuses on proactive strategies to prevent and address behavioral issues for better social outcomes and quality of life.
California’s Self-Determination Program (SDP) helps people with disabilities access the best behavioral intervention services to match their specific needs.
Through this program, individuals with IDDs who show a need for behavioral support have the power to pick their own services and providers. This provides a sense of independence and personalizing their care. For more information about this program, review the SDP service definitions.
Examples of Behavioral Intervention Therapy for Adults with Disabilities
Behavioral intervention therapy involves using different methods and approaches tailored to each person’s needs and goals. Here are some examples of interventions used to support adults with disabilities:
- Social Skills Training: Teaching individuals how to interact well with others, understand social cues, and build meaningful relationships.
- Communication Strategies: Improving verbal and nonverbal communication skills, including finding alternate ways to communicate for those who cannot speak.
- Self-Management Techniques: Helping people learn how to keep track of and control their own behavior so they depend less on others to remind them.
- Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA): Identifying the underlying causes of challenging behaviors and developing effective strategies to address them.
- Positive Reinforcement: Using rewards and incentives to encourage good behaviors and reduce negative ones.
These interventions are led by trained behavior intervention specialists who collaborate closely with the individual and their support network. The goal is to enhance quality of life and help people participate more fully in their communities.
Find Disability Services That Fit Your Needs
Navigating the various services available for adults with disabilities can be overwhelming. That’s where NeuroNav comes in. Our independent facilitators are dedicated to helping you locate the services and providers that best match your needs.
Whether you're looking for behavioral intervention services or other forms of support, we’re here to assist you. Our services are here for those transitioning into the SDP as well as active participants.
To learn more about NeuroNav’s independent facilitators and how they can help you, reach out today to schedule a free consultation.
